Senator Akpabio denies feud with governor Emmanuel

The Senate Minority Leader and senator representing Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District, Godswill Akpabio, has denied media speculations that he was embroiled in a rift with his successor, Governor Udom Emmanuel, describing the insinuations as the handiwork of political jobbers. 

Senator Akpabio, in a statement in Abuja by his Special Assistant on Media, Anietie Ekong said so far he was satisfied with the performance of Governor Emmanuel and added that he cannot be engaged in a feud with an administration that his Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District played a significant role in its emergence. 

The statement cautioned those making inciting statements to create a wedge between the senator and the governor to desist from it as they were only doing so for their personal benefits.

The alleged rift between Akpabio and Emmanuel is expected, because it has become a tradition in Nigerian politics since 1999 for godfather and godson to disagree. So, Akpabio’s denial makes no meaning, considering the fact that it is only a matter of time for the truth to be known. Akpabio should thread with caution to save his political career because as he must have known, the people of the state will not support him to fight Emmanuel ahead of 2019 elections.

While it is expected of Emmanuel to accord Akpabio some modicum of respect, the Senator should be mindful of his limits as he is no longer the governor but only a legislator from the state.

Akpabio must not only respect the office of the governor, he should also respect the occupant, Governor Emmanuel and give him the free hand to run the state and take responsibility for his actions.